What you need to pack to wear in Japan will vary depending on what time of the year you're travelling and where you’re going.

Summer months can be incredibly hot and sticky, so loose, lightweight and breathable clothing is essential for travel over June, July and August. While linen and cotton are good options, cotton in particular does not dry well in Japan's humid climate.

Spring and autumn can be crisp to cold, so depending on your sensitivity level you might want to pack thermal layers in addition to your coat and boots.

Outside of Hokkaido and the mountains, the winter temperatures in Japan are manageable as long as you have regular cold weather clothes like a good coat, pair of gloves, a winter hat and a scarf.

Read more about weather in Japan

The style of dress common for women in Japan may be a little more covered up than you are used to, particularly outside the major cities. While miniskirts and short-shorts are common in places like Kyoto and Tokyo, it’s rare to see women with exposed cleavage. Be aware that a low-cut top can draw more attention than you’re expecting.  

Below are a few suggestions for things you’ll want to pack no matter when (or where) you’re going.

Warm and waterproof clothing in Japan

Must-pack items for Japan

  • Nice socks – there’s nothing worse than taking your shoes in the genkan (entryway) only to shuffle inside, awkwardly trying to hide the big toe peeking through the hole of your old sock. In Japan, you’ll be expected to remove your shoes at homes, anywhere with tatami mat flooring and in ryokans. Pack more socks than you normally need and pack ones you don’t mind other people getting a glimpse of.

  • Raincoat – even in winter, the driest time of the year, Tokyo still gets an average of nine days of rainfall a month. While just how wet it can get varies depending on where you are, no matter what season you’re travelling in it’s a great idea to pack a lightweight raincoat and carry it on you at all times, just in case.

  • Comfortable pants/trousers – in Japan, you might find yourself sitting on the floor more than you’re used to. Even if you’re not adopting the formal seiza position (knees bent with your butt sitting on the back of your calves), it’s a good idea to wear stretchy or loose long pants that you feel comfortable bending and crossing your legs in.

See our ultimate packing list for a more comprehensive list of items you should bring on your trip to Japan.

Click here to return to Japan FAQs

Our tours in Japan

12 Days From 108031

Uncover the wonders of Japan on this immersive 12-day Premium tour; encompassing Tokyo,...

10 Days From 29265

Shop in Tokyo, see Samurais in Kanazawa, soak up history in Hiroshima, wander the...

13 Days From 73402

Discover Japanese culture on this 13-day tour. Travel with a local from Tokyo to Kyoto...

11 Days From 93300

Journey from Kyoto to Tokyo with Intrepid and explore temples, post towns and lush...

9 Days From 36790

See Japan in nine days on a trip visiting Tokyo, Nikko and Kyoto. Say konnichiwa to...

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

9 Days From 36790

See Japan in nine days on a trip visiting Tokyo, Nikko and Kyoto. Say konnichiwa to...

12 Days From 98700

Discover Japan on this 12-day family tour. Sample fresh sushi in Tokyo, soak in onsen...

8 Days From 55215

See the best of Japan on this eight-day adventure from Tokyo via Kamakura to Osaka....

8 Days From 55215

See the best of Japan on this eight-day adventure from Tokyo via Kamakura to Osaka....

11 Days From 81015

Take a foodie’s adventure to Japan, starting in Tokyo and hitting the streets of...

12 Days From 98210

Get a cultural workout on a 12-day Japan active adventure. Hike the Nakasendo Way and...

9 Days From 90925

Take a Premium trip through the highlights of Japan, including Tokyo, Kyoto, Kamakura,...

24 Days From 171545

Take an epic adventure through Japan, visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, Takayama, Nikko, Hakone,...

12 Days From 89615

Take a journey through southern Japan, starting and ending in Osaka. Wander Takamatsu,...

8 Days From 61665

Take a fun family adventure to Japan and visit Tokyo, Kawane, Kyoto and Osaka. Travel...

11 Days From 100045

Experience the best of this fascinating country on a comprehensive cycling tour of...

8 Days From 53680

Get a cultural workout on an eight-day small group trek on the Koya-san and Kumano Kodo...